There’s something magical about the combination of apples, cinnamon, and oatmeal—especially in cookie form. These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are soft and cake-like in the middle, with slightly crisp, chewy edges and bursts of juicy apple in every bite. They embody the warmth and coziness of fall but are just as delicious any time of the year.
If you love classic oatmeal cookies but want a seasonal twist, this recipe is a must-try. With the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, these cookies will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Spiced – The cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a warm, inviting flavor.
- Soft and Chewy Texture – These cookies have a delightful contrast of soft centers and slightly crisp edges.
- Easy to Make – With simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- A Great Way to Use Fresh Apples – Perfect for when you have extra apples on hand!
- Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and enjoy whenever you need a cozy treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (not quick oats!)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 cup Granny Smith apples, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning and brighten flavor)
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step ensures a soft cookie texture.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Toss Apples in Lemon Juice
In a small bowl, toss the finely diced apples with lemon juice to keep them fresh and enhance their flavor.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Then, gently fold in the apples.
Step 7: Scoop and Shape
Use a medium cookie scoop to drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each cookie for even baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Expert Tips for the Best Apple Oatmeal Cookies
- Choose the Right Apples – Granny Smith apples are ideal because their tartness balances the cookie’s sweetness. Avoid using softer, sweeter apples.
- Finely Dice the Apples – This ensures even distribution and a perfect bite every time.
- Use Rolled Oats, Not Quick Oats – They provide the best texture and chewiness.
- Measure Flour Correctly – Use the scoop and sweep method or a kitchen scale to prevent dense cookies.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice – It enhances the apple flavor and prevents browning.
- Use a Cookie Scoop – For uniform cookies that bake evenly.
Delicious Variations
- Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delicious crunch.
- Make Them Vegan: Swap the butter for vegan butter and the egg for a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
- Gluten-Free Version: Use 1:1 gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats.
- Extra Cinnamon Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for even more warmth.
- Drizzle with Icing: A simple vanilla or maple glaze takes these cookies to the next level!
What to Serve with Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
These cookies are amazing on their own, but here are some ways to enhance the experience:
- With Warm Apple Cider – The ultimate cozy pairing.
- Alongside a Cup of Coffee or Tea – Perfect for a fall afternoon treat.
- As a Dessert with Ice Cream – Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.
- With a Glass of Milk – A classic combo for all ages.
How to Store and Freeze
Storing:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Keep them soft by adding a slice of bread to the container.
Freezing:
- Freeze the Dough: Scoop cookie dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Freeze Baked Cookies: Store in an airtight container, layering with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
No, quick oats will absorb too much moisture and make the cookies too soft. Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, but stick with firm, tart apples like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady. Avoid overly sweet apples like Red Delicious.
How do I make these cookies crispier?
For a crispier texture, bake a few extra minutes and let them cool completely on the wire rack.
Can I make these without eggs?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce.
What if I don’t have lemon juice?
You can use orange juice or apple cider vinegar as a substitute.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are the ultimate fall-inspired treat—but honestly, they’re delicious all year round! Whether you’re baking them for a cozy afternoon snack, a holiday treat, or just because you love apple-cinnamon flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Give these cookies a try and let me know what you think! Did you love them? Leave a rating and a comment below! 🍏🍪